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Site Selection, Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Intermodal, Rail, 3PL, Air Cargo, Utilities, Ocean, Trucking, Warehousing, Economic Development
Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Transportation Infrastructure, Global Economy, Global Logistics, Import, Export, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, China, Health Care Logistics, Agriculture Logistics, Air Cargo, Ocean, Green Logistics
Global Logistics—September 2010
Mexico Taxes U.S. Imports, Audi's carbon friendly cars and carbon friendly transportation, Australia labors over transportation expansion, UPS opens health care logistics hubs in Singapore and China, U.S. football imports from China
Supply Chain Management, Intermodal, Rail, 3PL, Air Cargo, Ocean, Trucking
Trends—July 2010
21st annual State of Logistics Report: Beating the Recession; Making dollars and Sense out of Jabulanis and Vuvuzelas; Mergers and Acquisitions Show signs of Recovery
3PL, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Ports, Intermodal, Global Logistics, Import, Export, Transportation, Ocean, Warehousing
FTZ Basics & Benefits
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
Risk Management, Global Logistics, 3PL, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Security, Materials Handling, Expedited Shipping, Ocean, Trucking, Warehousing
163 Ways to Supercharge Your Supply Chain
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
Supply Chain Management, Expedited Shipping, Air Cargo, Trucking
Time-Critical Transport: Devising a Master Plan
Expedited shipping modes are a crucial part of shippers’ planned transportation strategies.
Transportation Infrastructure, Intermodal, Health Care Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Trends—November 2013
Regulatory compliance is top supply chain challenge for healthcare executives; Ohio’s transportation funding plan pays dividends with bridge repair program; GM saves $40 million a year by co-locating stamping and assembly facilities; Collaboration is the key to sustained procurement savings; U.S. domestic intermodal surpasses international as growth driver.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Rail, Global Logistics, Air Cargo, Ocean, Green Logistics, Latin America
Global Logistics—November 2013
Aviation climate emissions agreement signals major progress; Latin American economic growth expected to accelerate despite hinterland connectivity issues; IMO’s container weight verification amendment irks some shipper advocates; Rolls-Royce developing hybrid wind-powered ship; Spain and Portugal seek rail freight harmonies
Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Northeast Florida: America’s Logistics Center Drives Global Business
Jacksonville, Florida’s transportation infrastructure, skilled workforce, and available land makes it an attractive site for businesses siting new locations for logistics services and manufacturing, writes Michael Breen of JAXUSA Partnership.
Supply Chain Management, Ocean
Is Slow Steaming Good for the Supply Chain?
Lars Kloch of SBS Worldwide, looks at the impact of slow steaming containerships on supply chain reliability, speed, and transport costs.
Supply Chain Management, Insurance, Ocean
Understanding INCOTERMS 2010
Incoterms are an internationally accepted set of standard commercial terms used between buyers and sellers. J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road helps shippers understand these rules.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
A Lost Art?
Today's supply chain professionals are tough, practical, and undeterred by the specter of failure, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Supply Chain Management, Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Safety, Air Cargo
Trends—December 2010
U.S. Department of Transportation pursues ban on cell phone use while driving; Proposed air cargo screening legislation enhances security measures; U.S. retailers place increased emphasis on supply chain management
Transportation Infrastructure, Transportation Management, Air Cargo
How to Ship Air Freight in Alaska
Moving cargo by air in Alaska requires expertise in transportation and logistics management.
Supply Chain Management, Ports, Logistics I.T., Ocean, Trucking
Trends—November 2010
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
3PL, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Utilities, Economic Development
Great Logistics Sites: Supply Chain Central
Here is a look at the attributes that rank high on the list for any company seeking a location for supply chain activities.
Supply Chain Management, Materials Handling, Ports, Forklifts, Ocean, Education & Careers
Trends—August 2010
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Freight Forwarders, Transportation Management, Air Cargo
Freight Forwarders: The Vital Link in Logistics Communication
A professional freight forwarder that represents the interests of all supply chain participants can serve as the missing link in supply chain communication.
Transportation Infrastructure, Air Cargo
On the Road | Piedmont Triad, North Carolina: Visions of an Aerotropolis
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly tours North Carolina's Piedmont Triad, home to a new FedEx hub and growing Aerotropolis.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Education & Careers
Jason Shefrin: Asset-Light, By Design
Jason Shefrin, executive vice president, global sourcing, at InterDesign Inc. streamlines global operations.
Supply Chain Management, Education & Careers
Benchmarking Career Development
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses the merits of supply chain continuing education.
Supply Chain Management, Lean, Partnership, Inventory Management
Collaborative Programs: Not a Chore But an Opportunity
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
3PL, Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Retail
Managing Retail Returns: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Optimized reverse logistics processes provide a good customer experience and recover value from returned goods.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Asia, Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, China, Labor Management, Canada, Manufacturing, Reverse Logistics, Latin America, Retail, Economic Development
Global—February 2014
China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard
Manufacturing, Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure
Site Selection: Follow the Signs to Competitive Advantage
Selecting sites for manufacturing and DC facilities involves tax incentives, suppliers, and logistics providers.
3PL, Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Transportation, Warehousing
The New 3PL Partnership: More Bang for Your Buck
Third-party logistics providers are assuming a less transactional, more consultative role with shippers.
Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Manufacturing, 3PL, Latin America, Economic Development
Cross-Border Trade: Made in Mexico
U.S. companies stand to gain from establishing manufacturing operations in Mexico – if they manage the challenges.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Partnership, Global Logistics, Transportation, Safety, Warehousing
Cargo Security: Protecting the Supply Chain
Ensuring supply chain security requires that shippers and logistics providers stay one step ahead of thieves.
Supply Chain Management, Specialized Logistics, Warehousing
Inbound Logistics Winter Reading Guide 2014
New books on supply chain, logistics, and transportation help logistics professionals stay sharp.
Security, Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Intermodal, Rail, Industry Associations, Transportation, Safety
Rail Trends Recap: Shared Strategies, Mixed Signals
The 2013 Rail Trends conference addressed issues of rail safety and regulation.
Supply Chain Management, Lean, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing
Automotive Logistics: The Upside of Resiliency
Collaborative risk management helps automakers and their supply chain partners protect against disruptions.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Inventory Management, Specialized Logistics, Retail
The Direct Sales Supply Chain: Where There’s a Will There’s Amway
George Calvert of Amway explains how the company's supply chain strategy supports its business model.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Health Care Logistics, Inventory Management
Controlling Costs in the Healthcare Supply Chain
Many healthcare companies are investigating ways to consolidate and trim expenses in logistics and supply chain.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Security, Partnership, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Transportation, Finance
Risk Mitigation: Supply Chain Safety Net
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Global Logistics, Packaging, Food Logistics, 3PL, Temperature Controlled, Air Cargo
Perishable Logistics: Cold Chain on a Plane
Air cargo shipments of perishable goods such as produce, flowers, and seafood require careful handling.
Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Materials Handling, E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Warehousing, Retail
Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Green Logistics
Weathering Climate Change and Supply Chain Risk
Supply chains must develop strategies for reducing risk related to climate change, such as drought and extreme weather.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Manufacturing, Latin America
Maximize Nearshoring Value to Minimize Supply Chain Complexity
Shifting production closer to the U.S. can benefit supply chains, but nearshoring also presents obstacles.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Global Logistics
Five Ways to Drive Efficiency In International Logistics
These five components are key for companies who want to streamline their international supply chain.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Inventory Management, Retail
Minimizing the Financial Impact of Peak Season Returns
Processing defective returns and overstocks quickly helps retailers maximize the recovery rate on this inventory.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Inventory Management
PVMI: A New Approach to Supply Chain Control
Production vendor managed inventory enables manufacturers to gain supply chain control.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Transportation Management, Transportation
Looking for One Logistics Partner That Does Everything with Excellence?
An enterprise logistics provider delivers holistic solutions that transform your business.
Year of Uncertainty?
2014 may be a year of uncertainty, but inbound logistics best practices can help improve supply chain operations, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Well, There’s One Thing That’s Certain…
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton shares highlights from the January 2014 issue.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Demand Planning, Logistics I.T., Ocean, Trucking
Trends—January 2014
SKU proliferation tops demand forecasting trends; U.S. government creates National Maritime Domain Awareness Plan; Trucking industry documents HOS impacts; 10 manufacturing and supply chain trends to keep an eye on in 2014; 5 tips for mapping the supply chain; Spot market demand stays high into 2014; Logistics sector adopts big data
Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Customer Service, 3PL, Retail
Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Customer Service
Plugging Multiple Brands Into Multiple Channels
Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.
Supply Chain Management, Global Economy, Global Logistics, Panama Canal
Panama Canal Expansion: Changing the Channel
The Panama Canal expansion, opening in 2015, may alter shippers' sourcing and routing decisions.
Supply Chain Management, Food Logistics, Green Logistics
Food Shippers Go Green
Leading food manufacturers and producers make sustainability best practices part of their supply chains.
Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Asia, Ocean
Global Logistics—December 2013
Infrastructure remains India's greatest supply chain challenge; Canadian e-commerce market is catching up to speed; Maersk, Mediterranean Shipping Co. and CMA CGM form P3 Alliance
Packaging, Supply Chain Management
Packaging Postponement: A Game Changer for F&B Companies
Positioning product packaging downstream in the supply chain offers food manufacturers varied selling opportunities.
Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Visions of Customer Service
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
Optimized Operations Are Green Operations
Ocean shipping lines have made significant progress to optimize operations, leading to reduced costs and environmental impact.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership
How to Transform Your Supply Chain Through a 4PL Approach
A fourth-party logistics provider (4PL) can help companies set and achieve supply chain improvement goals.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Transportation
Vendor Compliance: Setting Them Straight
Drive out inefficiencies and boost customer service by aligning with vendors to meet your supply chain goals.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Plan Early for Peak Returns Season
Planning for peak returns season can minimize processing costs and maximize recovery values of returned inventory.
Intermodal, Rail, Ocean, Trucking
Intermodal Efficiencies
Intermodal allows shippers to cut transportation costs without sacrificing service.
Inbound Logistics’ 2013 Shipping Lines Guide
A resource for information on steamship line service offerings, capabilities, and new developments.
Intermodal, Rail, Transportation Management, Ocean, Trucking
All Aboard a Modal Conversion
Exploring intermodal transportation's potential.
Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Creating More Intelligent Supply Chains with BI Technology
Incorporating business intelligence tools into logistics strategy gives companies access to efficiency-boosting data.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics, Retail
The Nuts & Bolts of the Automotive Aftermarket Supply Chain
The automotive aftermarket’s logistics trends, challenges, and best practices give shippers a wild ride.
Keeping Track of Time
From retailers to OEMs, companies track parts and finished goods to drive supply chain visibility and flexibility.
Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing
Feeding the Line
A look at the supply chain for manufacturers that supply materials or components to other manufacturers.
Get Airborne with Asset Tracking
GPS tracking devices give shippers shipment visibility, even when cargo is in the air.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Have You Seen That 584-Page ‘Map’ Yet?
The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act steps up surety bond requirements for freight brokers.
Inbound Logistics’ Summer Reading Guide 2013
Sharpen your skills with these books covering supply chain and logistics topics.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics
Meeting the Challenges of the Ever-Evolving Compliance Environment
Collaborating with a global logistics provider helps small and medium-sized businesses ensure regulatory compliance.
Trading Partner Collaboration Yields Supply Chain Value
Trading partners share sales and inventory data to support mutual benefits such as optimized inventory and productivity.
3PLs Can Provide Soft Cost Savings for Small Businesses
Logistics providers can help shippers save money through decreased labor, lower overhead, and technology tools.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Preparation: Your Best Asset in Managing Supply Chain Disruptions
Collaborate with suppliers to manage supply chain risks with the highest potential to occur and risk of business impact.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports
Improving America's Ports: A Vital Step in U.S. Economic Recovery
Investing in port infrastructure allows long-term job creation so the U.S. can lead in international trade and commerce.
Business Process Improvement? Flexibility.
Flexible 3PLs drive business process improvements for shippers.
Finding Supply Chain Feng Shui
Outsourcing transportation and logistics to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) blends function and flexibility into a supply chain feng shui.
Supply Chain Remodeling
Four companies worked with 3PLs to make over their logistics operations, so they could meet evolving business demands.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Transportation Infrastructure: Building Hope for the Future
U.S. industry confronts a failing transportation system and looming capacity crunch. New legislation may help.
Supply Chain Management, Manufacturing, Specialized Logistics
Guiding an Energy Renaissance: Questions and Answers With Michael O'Neill
The emergence of domestically sourced natural gas heralds significant changes in the North America energy market.
Choosing the Right Airfreight Forwarder
When choosing an airfreight forwarder, consider transport and tech capabilities, service records, and professionalism.
Temperature-Sensitive Goods, Air Cargo, Logistics I.T.
Sensor-based Logistics: Monitoring Shipment Vital Signs in Real Time
Sensor-based logistics solutions monitor factors like temperature and humidity to protect perishable shipments.
The Lean Supply Chain: Watch Your Waste Line
Shippers and 3PLs have applied lean principles to remove waste from their operations and improve performance.
Distribution, Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, 3PL, Retail
E-Fulfillment Strategies That Deliver the Goods
This story examines what customers want in an e-commerce operation and shares fulfillment strategies that merchants use to keep those customers happy.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Retail
8 Ways to Strengthen Online Retailer Supply Chains
Monitoring contracts, delivery commitments, and contingency plans helps online retailers keep their supply chains running smoothly, writes John Haber of Spend Management Experts.
Supply Chain Management, Asia, Risk Management, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Manufacturing, Latin America
Shoring up Sourcing Strategies
Shifting manufacturing operations in Asia back to North America provides companies more control of their supply chains, says Steve Sensing of Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Intermodal, Rail, 3PL, Economic Development
Site Selection: The Rise of Intermodal
Transporting goods via truck and rail services offers shippers economy and efficiency benefits. Site selection teams evaluating intermodal sites also consider factors such as labor, transportation infrastructure, and utility costs.
Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Alaska: Logistics at the Global Crossroads
Logistics providers operating in Alaska brave rough terrain and extreme weather conditions to serve the state’s residents and industries, which include seafood, oil and gas, and timber.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
America’s Hardened Arteries
The United States lags behind other nations in transportation policy and infrastructure funding, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Preparing Your Supply Chain For Seasonal Peaks
Plan for seasonal peaks by securing efficient labor, sufficient warehouse space, and reliable carriers.
Less Than Containerload, More Than Worth It
The new wave of less than containerload (LCL) ocean services combines well-established networks, improved reporting, more certain delivery times, and end-to-end pricing.
Trends and Predictions for 2013 and Beyond
The transportation and logistics sector is in the midst of some of its biggest changes since deregulation, and 2013 will play a pivotal role in discerning which companies will rise to the top, writes Chad Eichelberger of Access America Transport.
Inbound Logistics’ Winter Reading Guide 2013
Whether you want to casually brush up on your supply chain management techniques or drastically reorganize your purchasing processes, you’ll find the knowledge you need in the pages of these supply chain resources.
Supply Chain Management: The Great Equalizer
In a business world defined and dictated by change, supply chain management balances challenges and competitive advantage. Companies large and small are leveraging transportation and logistics best practices to act as great equalizers.
Demand-Driven Logistics: Remote Control
Adopting demand-driven logistics can increase visibility, drive supply chain efficiency, and offset any market advantage your competitors might have.
Improving Supplier Compliance
Developing an effective supplier compliance program requires planning and communication, writes Peter Wharton of IBM.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership
Connectivity-Visibility-Optimization: Three Keys To a Successful Supply Chain Trading Partner Network
A well-oiled trading partner network allows one-to-many and many-to-many partners to collaborate and communicate using a single source of truth garnered from real-time information, writes Christopher P. Mazza of IAS.
Trends—January 2013
Shifting production and consumption patterns push inter-regional trade; Ford tinkers with polymers, finds hidden green; Motorola Mobility flexes its supply chain with outsourcing approach; American consumer electronics companies more transparent than Asian competitors; Smaller Florida ports bullish on Panama Canal-triggered growth potential; Retail supply chain sophistication makes overstock sales obsolete; Sustainability and CSR rank low in procurement priorities; Retailers fail to appreciate the true power of mobility
Supply Chain Force Multipliers
By providing end-to-end visibility, demand driven logistics practices deliver competitive advantage and solve supply chain challenges for businesses of all sizes, writes Publisher Keith Biondo.
The Great Equalizer
Supply chain management makes a difference by empowering companies to do more with less, and project a stronger competitive force, writes Editor Felecia Stratton.
Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Measuring the Value of Collaboration
In a true collaborative relationship between purchasing and logistics, order and routing pattern planning comprises a single, optimized decision process that yields measurable results, writes Bill Michalski of ArrowStream.
Panama Canal, Transportation Infrastructure, Ports
Ports and Shippers Prepare for the Post-Panamax Age
The Panama Canal expansion, to be completed in 2015, will impact global commerce and affect trade patterns to the U.S. East Coast. Ports such as PortMiami are preparing themselves to accept the new class of mega cargo ships, says Bill Johnson of PortMiami.
What Sandy Showed Me
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton sees the supply chain industry's true colors firsthand.
Panama Canal: More Questions Than Answers
As Panama Canal expansion nears completion, global shippers gain a viable alternative for shipping ocean cargo from Asia to U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports.
Air Freight Collaboration and Agility
By implementing collaborative and flexible logistics practices and remaining agile, managing air freight today can be a win-win process for both shipper and forwarder, writes Horst von Kanel of Damco USA.
Expedited Shipping, Air Cargo, Trucking
Expedited Transport: It’s All in the Timing
Expedited services transport cargo by air, sea, or ground to meet shippers’ demands for consistent, on-time delivery with short lead times.
How to Drive Visibility Through a Supply Chain Network Control Tower
Shippers can create a "control tower" view within their own supply chains—a common platform for aggregating, cleansing, and communicating real-time data.
Supply Chain Management, Export
Complying with Export Regulations and Requirements
To successfully manage export compliance, companies must fully understand export regulations and filing requirements, advises Scott Byrnes, Amber Road.
Emily Ross: Good Blood
As senior supply chain manager at blood management devices manufacturer Haemonetics Corporation, Emily Ross monitors the pulse of the company’s transportation and warehousing services sourcing.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation
Trends—October 2012
Greyhound partners with One Network to enhance parcel delivery business. Truck driver turnover increases,Urban Outfitters equips Nevada e-fulfillment center with state-of-the-art materials handling system. Shippers turn to spot market to find capacity and compare carrier rates. MSC Beatrice debut in Asia-U.S. trade signals new wave of larger containerships.
Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Logistics I.T.
Visibility is the Key to Mitigating Supply Chain Risk
Supply chain visibility helps flag upcoming supply or demand problems, allowing a company either to take action to prevent disasters or to respond by activating backup plans, writes George W. Prest of Material Handling Industry of America.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics, Transportation
Global Logistics—October 2012
Chinese e-commerce company Alibaba invests in logistics to support online shopping growth; Jamaica looks to transform economy with the development of a global logistics hub; Vietnam faces a dearth of logistics talent and expertise; China grants licenses to UPS and FedEx to provide parcel delivery services in select cities; China Airlines Cargo joins SkyTeam Cargo alliance; Germany debuts JadeWeserPort amid slack container volume growth
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics
Understanding the Implications of Related Party Transactions and Transfer Pricing
Supply chain managers should work closely with compliance professionals and corporate tax specialists when making decisions about related-party transactions, writes J. Anthony Hardenburgh of Amber Road.
Reverse Logistics, Supply Chain Management
Return to Sender: Managing Reverse Logistics
While many factors influence customer loyalty, a well-run returns process has proven to drive repeat orders and improve consumer satisfaction. Paul Galpin of P2P Mailing outlines three points companies should consider when designing their reverse logistics.
Eliminating Wasted Motion
Lean concepts such as 5S, Visual Workplace, and Kanban help reduce motion waste to create safer, more efficient workplaces.
Security, Transportation, Ocean
Trading Partners Work Together to Secure Maritime Cargo
Supply chain partners are taking cues from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and making concerted efforts to share and apply security best practices throughout their organizations and supply chain operations, says Howard Finkel of COSCO Container Lines Americas.
Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Shared Technology Resources Hold the Key to Supply Chain Optimization
Supply chain managers must determine the best technology for their supply chain based on their specific organizational needs, says Krishna Rallabhandi of Four Soft.
Negotiating Ocean Contracts That Will Float Your Boat
The complexity of ocean freight contracts requires shippers to negotiate carefully with carriers so both parties can find beneficial terms.
Inbound Logistics’ 2012 Ocean Carrier Guide
Inbound Logistics' annual Ocean Carrier Guide outlines where ocean carriers are investing capital, and how they are enhancing fleets, services, solutions, and coverage areas to better meet ocean shipping demands.
Supply Chain Management, Education & Careers
How Supply Chain Executives Can Earn a Place in the C-Suite
By managing supply chain interdependencies and adopting a full view of service and cost, supply chain executives can amplify their organizational scope and heighten their financial contribution to attain the C-designation they deserve, writes Terry Harris, Chicago Consulting.
Supply Chain Management, Retail
Supply Chain Therapy Strikes a Balance
As retailers look to grow their business, the challenge of keeping up with the market becomes exponentially greater—especially as new channels emerge, writes Editor Felecia Stratton. Supply chain management can help create balance between supply and demand.
Trends—August 2012
Southwest Airlines introduces cargo tracking device; Supply chains are challenged by product recalls; Reliability is key to ocean shipping success; Genesee & Wyoming, RailAmerica merger puts rail shippers and economy back on track; Integrated services key to outsourcing success
Containerization’s Benefits Can’t Be Contained
By incorporating containerization into downstream transportation and upstream supply chain workflows, companies can improve asset utilization, use fewer trucks, drive fewer miles, reduce fuel costs, and enhance distribution center operations, writes Fabrizio Brasca, JDA Software.
Supply Chain Management, Global Logistics
Managing Global Complexity: The Right Tools for the Job
New international supply chain optimization tools are capable of considering all appropriate shipment flows, modes, routes, and cargo to come up with an ideal workable plan – as often as needed and anytime things change.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Panama Canal, Economic Development
Southeast Ports: What’s on the Horizon?
Looking out to 2015, anticipation is swirling about the Panama Canal's expansion and impact on U.S. trade. Among southeastern ports and shippers, that wave of anticipation has already made landfall.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership
Great Partnerships: 3PLs and Shippers
Many companies, including Kimberly-Clark, Ebro, and USG Corporation, are moving beyond the traditional, transactional shipper-3PL relationship to form collaborative partnerships focused on mutual gain.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership
3PL Perspectives 2012: Shippers and 3PLs—Perfect Together
Inbound Logistics’ eighth-annual 3PL market research report demonstrates how 3PLs and shippers are connecting to confront existing challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
Thinking Small: The Business Case for LCL
Less-than-containerload (LCL) services are expanding to meet shippers’ need for a cost-effective approach to smaller ocean freight volumes.
Inbound Logistics’ Summer Reading Guide 2012
New publications on supply chain and logistics topics such as warehousing, sustainability, and procurement help logistics professionals stay sharp. Here are some recent books on supply chain topics of interest.
Transportation Infrastructure, Cross-border Trade, Canada, Economic Development
Canada Trade: Driving Growth Northward
Increasing demand for U.S. goods in Canada represents a positive sign for the economies of both countries. But keeping cross-border shipments moving requires building smart and savvy logistics partnerships.
Supply Chain Control Towers Offer a Bird’s-Eye View
Companies are increasingly realizing that supply chain must become a core competency. Adding a supply chain control tower and taking on the fourth-party logistics (4PL) role offers them the ability to accelerate collaboration and achieve higher performance levels.
Trends—June 2012
Land O’Lakes focuses on workplace culture to improve supply chain yield; Fuel consumption major concern for management,less so for drivers; Gartner poses four supply chain predictions for 2016
Air Cargo’s Future: Ready for Anything
The airfreight industry is depending on the new efficiencies promised by new freighters, e-commerce, and updated air traffic control systems to offset economic uncertainties and increasing regulatory requirements.
Trends—May 2012
Cloud-based business networks are the future of supply chain intelligence; Chemical supply scarcity threatens global auto production; Fuel costs eat into transportation revenues; Organizations should consider insurance options to mitigate supply chain risk and improve resiliency
Proper Care and Nurturing of a Supply Chain
With proper care and nurturing, you can create a supply chain that performs beautifully – even in the midst of today’s ever-changing business environment, writes Wendy Buxton, LynnCo Supply Chain Solutions.
Hey! Your Numbers are Trying to Talk to You!
Capturing and analyzing transportation spend data is the key to outstanding supply chain management, writes Steven Shoemaker, RateLinx.
LCL Plays Growing Role in Global Ocean Transportation
Demand for less-than-containerload (LCL) services is rising among global importer and exporters whose business models rely on cost, inventory control, and supply chain visibility. Greg Scott of CEVA Logistics discusses how the oil and gas, retail, and automotive industries are using LCL services to their advantage.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Economic Development
Economic Development: Pulling the Right Strings
Many state governments support transportation and logistics infrastructure development and legislation that facilitate business retention, investment, and expansion. Economic development efforts in Virginia, Iowa, Idaho, Utah, and Wisconsin demonstrate a variety of approaches to supporting in-state businesses.
Preparing for an Ocean Capacity Crunch
Ocean shippers can take steps to help ensure containers are delivered on time, writes Lars Kloch, managing director, USA, SBS Worldwide.
Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Logistics in Alaska: Taming the Last Frontier
Shipping products to and within Alaska poses challenges and presents opportunities for transportation service providers such as Carlile Transportation Systems, Lynden Logistics, and Alaska Air Cargo.
Supply Chain Management, China
5 Ways to Excel in China
U.S. businesses operating in China face a number of challenges. Angela Yang of Penske Logistics Asia offers advice on supporting your business’ China operations.
Air Cargo, Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
Trying on a Tailor-made TMS
Ralph Lauren’s transport operations team lacked the ability to dynamically route international air freight according to real-time best service and cost options, and it showed in inflated shipping costs. When a market search found no suitable transportation management system (TMS) for international air freight, the company decided to create its own, with help from solutions provider Acuitive Solutions.
Ocean Freight Carriers Weather Rough Seas
The demands of volatile markets and structural changes taking place in the ocean freight sector make strong shipper/carrier partnerships beneficial to both parties.
The Fifth P of Marketing
People are a vital component of marketing - the fifth P - supporting products and companies with advanced logistics and supply chain management skills, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
The Art of Integration
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses supply chain integration, citing articles from the January 2012 Logistics Planner issue.
Global Supply Chain Strategy: Decision Points
In strategic supply chain analysis, multiple groups of decision makers may have conflicting interests, since there can be an impact across departments and business units. Aaron Baker of Damco USA offers two global supply chain strategy examples that illustrate the decision makers and decision variables needed to ensure the chosen solution is optimal for the business.
Responsive and Flexible Logistics Management Solutions for 2012 and Beyond
Companies require a logistics technology platform and an integrated set of services that can adapt to the pressures of a changing market, writes Glenn Riggs of Odyssey Logistics & Technology.
Trends—January 2012
Supply chain trends for 2012; update on transportation issues in California, Washington, Kentucky, and South Dakota; reverse logistics helps retailers generate customer goodwill and create demand; airport warehousing demand soars; FAA regulations limit pilot flight time; Coca-Cola extends its environmental stewardship; Trucking industry responds to Hours-of-Service legislation
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure
Tiger Grants: Road Work Ahead?
The Department of Transportation's third set of Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants provides funding for a range of projects.
Scrutinizing Supply Chain Security
The logistics sector is using new approaches, mandates, and technologies to support global supply chain security.
Supply Chain Management, Education & Careers
Purchasing Managers: Minding Everyone's Business
With companies intent on optimizing the supply chain, purchasing managers have emerged as key players in the business plan. To be successful, they need to communicate, collaborate, and venture into new territory.
Safeguarding Your Supply Chain Against Rising Fuel Prices
Shippers can protect their supply chains against rising fuel costs by optimizing distribution networks, creating a flexible infrastructure, and managing shipping practices.
Supply Chain Management, Health Care Logistics
Healthcare Supply Chain Costs: A Tough Pill to Swallow
Organizations all along the healthcare supply chain are taking a dose of smarter procurement and logistics practices to cure high costs and treat ailments in other areas of the business.
How to Ship in Alaska
The variety of cargoes that fly in and out of Alaska—ranging from time-sensitive medical supplies and oil field equipment to perishable seafood—means companies must identify specific shipment needs and align them with asset and service requirements.
How to Improve Maritime Cargo Security
Shippers can ensure ocean cargo security by taking steps such as using C-TPAT checklists, performing random container inspections, applying security seals, shipping through secured ports, conducting security training, and following U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidelines.
How to Manage Peak Season Variability
Unpredictable consumer habits, the economic downturn, and limited ocean carrier capacity have transformed the traditional peak shipping season. Now shippers are preparing for a new reality: peak season variability.
Building Efficiency Into Your Supply Chain
Ellen Fontaine, VASCOR Ltd, offers advice for boosting supply chain efficiency.
Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management
Delivering a Slice Of Fresh Supply Chain Solutions
A new inbound/outbound logistics operations solution helps pizza chain Papa John's handle rapid expansion.
Managing the Three V’s of Logistics
A combination of factors such as increased competition and global security threats have increased the pressure on companies to improve logistics efficiencies. Page Siplon, executive director, Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics, addresses these factors and offers strategies for handling them.
Supply Chain Management, Security, Cross-border Trade
Maneuvering Freight Through Challenging International Areas
If your business plans include shipping to areas where civil unrest or natural disasters have occurred, be flexible and make strong connections, advises Larry Wenrich, Pilot Freight Services.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Embracing Interstate 2.0: A Rail-based Transportation Vision
Gil Carmichael, founding chairman of the Intermodal Transportation Institute at the University of Denver, explains how the United States can create new economic vitality by producing a safe, energy efficient, and environmentally friendly multimodal transportation policy in which rail once again plays a dominant role.
3PL Capability is Key to Logistics Cost Reduction
Capable third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help you manage rising logistics costs because they have highly developed processes and critical infrastructures in place, writes Brad Constantini, Comprehensive Logistics.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics
Distribution Network Optimization: Repairing Cracked Supply Chain Design
Vehicle glass manufacturer Safelite increased distribution efficiency, enhanced customer service, and lowered costs by transforming its supply chain.
The Box That Rocked the Boat
Containerization reshaped ocean shipping, spurring further innovations such as bigger ships, giant cranes, suburban ports, and intermodal transportation. Future trends will include challenges including how to accommodate ever-larger ships, how to guarantee a chassis supply for shippers and how the dynamics of fuel costs, vessel size, and sailing schedules will impact container rates.
Rallying CFO Support for Your Supply Chain Initiatives
Steve Ford, CFO of TradeCard, outlines strategies for enlisting your chief financial officer’s support for supply chain initiatives.
Trends—June 2011
Restaurant chains squeeze costs out of the supply chain; TMW Systems acquires Appian Logistics; CPG companies pushed to adopt extended producer responsibility programs
Optimizing Air Cargo Shipments
Scott Aubuchon of UPS offers tips to help shippers make the most of their air cargo shipments.
Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Air Cargo
Trends—May 2011
As You Sow asks P&G and General Mills to recycle post-consumer waste; PepsiCo and Coca-Cola make bottles out of plants; Air cargo industry raises concerns about the Transportation Security Administration’s 100-percent screening mandate; Truckers report increasing volumes and rates; TMS market shows signs of rebound; CN invests in new intermodal equipment, new customers; Amazon vacates S.C. DC over sales tax
Excellence in Supply Chain Execution
These elements of good supply chain management must come together to achieve exceptional execution, according to John Williford of Ryder Global Supply Chain Solutions.
Security, Logistics I.T., Ocean
Container Security: Filling in the Blanks
Equipping shipments with container security devices (CSDs) can help expedite inspections, decrease insurance premiums, and minimize supply chain disruptions. Jim Giermanski of Powers Global Holdings outlines the benefits of CSDs.
Supply Chain Management, Finance
Finance & The Supply Chain: Show Me the Money
Innovative supply chain management delivers financial benefits to your bottom line.
Reducing Ocean Freight Costs
Mark Malambri, CEVA Logistics, offers tips to help shippers reduce costs and increase efficiencies when purchasing ocean freight services.
Supply Chain Management, Global Economy
Managing Risk in a Chain of Fire
Man-made disruptions and natural disasters have a radiating effect on global supply chains. Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton discusses ways of coping.
Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Efficient Use of State Resources Keeps Transportation Flowing
Christopher Chung, CEO of the Missouri Partnership, describes how Missouri's efficient use of state resources results in efficient transportation that does not compromise safety or customer satisfaction.
Intermodal, Transportation Infrastructure
Northern Exposure: Navigating the Alaskan Supply Chain
Intermodal transportation stitches together Alaska's 663,268 square miles of rugged terrain, presenting challenges and opportunities for intrepid shippers.
Global Air Service That Inspires Customer Confidence
Choose a global air transportation services provider that both you and your customers can trust to deliver time-sensitive inventory on schedule.
Supply Chain Management, Cross-Docking
Benchmark Your Way to Successful Crossdocking
Companies can benchmark their way to crossdocking success by following these five steps recommended by Andre Thornton, President and CEO, ASW Global LLC.
Import, Cross-border Trade, Ocean
Who’s Comparing Your Import Data?
If you don't file accurate import data with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, you put your company at risk for penalties and fines, warns Kevin Shoemaker, director, global solutions for Integration Point Inc.
Supply Chain Management, Inventory Management
Gaining Ground
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo cites real-world cases of supply chain gains, including Del Monte Foods, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, and National Starch.
Gaining Even More Ground
Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton reflects on the magazine's January 2011 coverage of supply chain gains.
Supply Chain Management, Trucking
Supply Chain Gain: Trucking Tactics
Strategic transportation management puts shippers on the road to increased fuel economy and improved asset utilization.
Transportation Infrastructure, Site Selection, Economic Development
Supply Chain Gain: Site Smarts
Where you locate a logistics facility can greatly influence how well your supply chain runs.
Supply Chain Management, Green Logistics
Supply Chain Gain: Shades of Green
Sustainability efforts can help companies grow more efficient supply chains.
Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Supply Chain Gain: Better Data, Better Results
New technology solutions help improve inventory visibility, increase routing agility, manage labor more effectively, and capture valuable information from the field.
Supply Chain Gain: Call In the Experts
Outsource your way to a more efficient supply chain by selecting a knowledgeable and resourceful third-party logistics provider.
Achieving Competitive Advantage: How the Right 3PL Partner Can Help You Dominate Your Market
Chris Baltz of Transportation Insight explains how the right 3PL partner can help you achieve competitive advantage and dominate your market.
Supply Chain Management, Automotive Logistics
The Wheels of Change: Questions & Answers with Ed Melching
To roll out a supply chain overhaul, truck and engine manufacturer Navistar chose third-party logistics provider Menlo as its strategic partner. Ed Melching, director, Global Logistics, describes the project.
Trends—January 2011
A look at supply chain stimuli that have left their mark on logistics over the past decade; cautious pessimism pervades NITL Conference; companies improve supply chain operations, signaling economic optimism among manufacturers; longtime cotton merchandiser Dunavant switches focus to providing logistics services; Ernst & Young reports growing demand for supplier sustainability efforts; Automotive Industry Action Group issues new communication guidelines to help ocean shippers prevent waste and errors
On the Road: Cross-Country Running
Driving across the United States presents insights into the nation’s manufacturing, energy, transportation, and sustainability developments.
Site Selection, Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Economic Development Outlook: Focus on 2011
Does lingering uncertainty about economic conditions, freight demands, and funding sources pose a threat to industrial real estate development and transportation infrastructure projects?
Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management, Inventory Management, Warehousing
Unleashing Logistics Excellence
Natural pet food manufacturer WellPet partnered with Aspen Logistics and Kane is Able to improve its supply chain and warehousing operations.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Customer Service
Managing a Customer-Driven Supply Chain
Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.
Cutting Costs From Your Logistics Budget
Nathan Pieri of Management Dynamics provides tips for reducing logistics costs through improved supply chain management.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Transport Funding: Who Gets the Big Piece of Pie?
The U.S. Department of Transportation's second round of stimulus funding for infrastructure development exposes a widening gap between U.S. roads, rails, and bridges and government special interests.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management, Inventory Management, Logistics I.T.
CSCMP Annual Conference: Can We Talk?
Wherever you went, attendees at the 2010 CSCMP Annual Conference were talking supply chain risk, volatility, disruption, and visibility.
Expedited Shipping, Air Cargo, Trucking
Supply Chain Velocity: Shifting Into Overdrive
When expediting shipments, visibility, communication, and customer service get into gear.
Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Trucking, Warehousing, Retail
How to Drive Collaborative Distribution
Collaborative distribution lets manufacturers, especially consumer product goods (CPG) companies, merge loads destined for the same end point to maximize trucking efficiency.
How to Enable a Proactive Supply Chain
Transaction and shipment exceptions are common, so businesses must be able to account for these variables by enabling a proactive supply chain.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations
Elephants Chasing TIGERs
The latest round of Department of Transportation TIGER grants continues the spending bias for passenger and other non-freight initiatives.
Ports, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, Ocean, Green Logistics
Global Logistics—November 2010
Heineken implements inland barge distribution in Europe; CMA CGM, MSC, and Maersk Line partner to fight piracy; PepsiCo UK and Ireland help farm suppliers cut carbon emissions and water usage; New Dubai Logistics Corridor facilitates UAE trade; Japanese economy shows signs of rebound; Taiwan launches project to improve logistics performance.
Supply Chain Management, Education & Careers
Getting a Seat at the Leadership Table
Leo Espinoza of Korn/Ferry International discusses qualities companies look for in supply chain executives.
Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, Intermodal, Utilities, Air Cargo, Latin America
Global Logistics—October 2010
Russia developing a super-heavy cargo plane; Suppliers cannot meet Northern Europe's demand for wind power equipment; United Arab Emirates top re-exporter of rice; Outsourcing grows in Brazil; FedEx Express expands expedited offerings in China; Luxembourg-based 3PL introduces new multimodal hanging garment container to Australian apparel industry.
Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Packaging, 3PL, Warehousing, Retail
Integrate Contract Packaging Into Distribution Operations to Cut Costs by 30%
By integrating contract packaging into distribution operations, companies can cut costs by 30 percent.
Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Optimizing Global Supply Chain Management
Andrea Robinson of CargoWise provides tips on handling global supply chain management challenges.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Risk Management
Supplier Disruptions: Preparing for the Unpredictable
Chandler Hall of BravoSolution explains how to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions by fostering collaborative relationships with your suppliers.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Transportation Management, Trucking
Trucking Alert: Steep Grade Ahead
Faced with challenges such as a capacity shortage and lack of qualified drivers, companies that ship product by truck are learning that working collaboratively with carriers can benefit both parties.
Pharmaceutical Logistics, 3PL, Supply Chain Management, Retail
Gemma Fillmore: Supply Chain Advocate
To improve supply chain performance at Medco Health Solutions, Gemma Fillmore focuses on getting C-level executives to give logistics issues the attention they deserve.
Ports, Global Economy, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Rail, Global Logistics, Panama Canal, Ocean, Trucking, Green Logistics, Latin America
Trends—September 2010
News briefs: U.S. Ports Dig Panama Gold, Reducing the Carton Footprint, SaaS to the Rescue, BNSF Brings Shortlines On Line, Truckers Tackle Credit Crunch
Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management, Retail
Inbound 3.0 at Walmart
Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo outlines how Walmart is taking inbound logistics to the next level.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Management
Your Guide to Routing Guides
Retailers publish routing guides to establish rules for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors to follow when fulfilling and shipping orders. Here are the benefits of establishing a routing guide.
Transportation Infrastructure, Site Selection, Economic Development
Ports-to-Plains Alliance Corridor: North America’s Energy and Agricultural Heartland
Spanning the U.S. heartland and reaching into Canada and Mexico, the Ports-to-Plains Alliance corridor links North America’s vital agricultural and industrial communities.
Supply Chain Management, Lean, 3PL
Lean Six Sigma: Leaning by Degrees
Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.
Customer Service, 3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership
What We’ve Got Here is Failure to Communicate
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
Supply Chain Management, Expedited Shipping, Temperature-Sensitive Goods, E-commerce, Transportation Management, Retail
Flower Power: John Kuehn
ProFlowers' time- and temperature-sensitive shipments create plenty of challenges for John Kuehn, senior vice president of supply chain operations. Here's how he nips problems in the bud.
Reverse Logistics, Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Health Care Logistics, Humanitarian Logistics
Humanitarian Aid: The Logistics of Doing Good
Nonprofit organization MedShare distributes recovered medical supplies to the places of greatest need.
Security, Transportation Infrastructure, Cross-border Trade, Canada
Ties That Bind: Sewing Up U.S.-Canada Trade
A steady stream of goods passing north and south across the U.S.-Canada border stitches the two nations tightly together, complicated by factors such as customs regulations, security protocols, data exchange, and infrastructure projects.
Inbound Logistics’ 2010 Summer Reading Guide
Recent books shed light on various aspects of supply chain, logistics, and transportation management.
Partnership, 3PL, Supply Chain Management
Are You Talkin’ to Me?
To be successful, a close relationship between third-party logistics providers and their shipper customers requires a great deal of communication.
Supply Chain Management, Labor Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Managing Labor Boosts Warehouse Operations
Labor management tools can help you determine if your workforce is performing at the level necessary to deliver cost-effective service to customers.
Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Global Economy, Global Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Logistics I.T.
Digitizing the Global Supply Chain
Global supply chain visibility and detail can only be achieved by modern electronic data transmissions that are already available and can reduce the costs of international cargo movement.
10 Paths to Supply Chain Innovation
To move your business along the road to supply chain improvement, take a journey down these 10 paths to innovation.
Supply Chain Management, China
Strengthening Your China Operations
Learn five strategies for keeping your Far East concerns running smoothly.
Deere Customer
A lean manufacturing value chain sometimes carries the risk of falling behind demand, as John Deere discovered, but the alternative can be worse, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Transportation Infrastructure, Economic Development
Growing Together: Promoting Government and Industry Collaboration
Logistics leaders can make a difference when they actively collaborate with the government on regulatory issues, workforce training, and infrastructure development, writes John A. Evans, Evans Distribution Systems.
Transportation Infrastructure, Global Logistics
Let's Go Europe: Touring Transportation Best Practices
U.S. companies exploring uncharted markets to expand their global presence might consider taking a second pass through Europe for a fresh perspective on transportation best practices.
Using Social Networking for Logistics
Tim Richards of States Logistics Services offers advice on using Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social networking sites to enhance your supply chain.
Brought!
A logistician's resilience is valuable when opportunities are ripe, but it's invaluable when problems persist, writes Inbound Logistics Editor Felecia Stratton.
On the Road | Introduction: Off the Beaten Path
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly's supply chain travelogue details a year spent visiting logistics and transportation sites and businesses around the country.
Containing Ocean Costs
Shippers use overseas consolidation, strategic loading tactics, and container sharing to cast off ocean transportation's financial burden.
Transportation Infrastructure, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Economic Development
Paving The Path To Progress
Public-private partnerships fund transportation projects and make infrastructure improvement a priority.
What’s the Difference?
Industry experts explain the source of some common misperceptions regarding supply chain and logistics lexicon.
Ready for the Rebound
Smart companies are using the recession to address supply chain inefficiencies so they will be ready for the economic rebound, writes Kurt Cavano of TradeCard.
Security, Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Air Cargo
Gearing Up for 100% Air Cargo Screening
The Transportation Security Administration's air cargo screening requirements create challenges for airports and shippers, writes Robert F. Caton of AMB Logistics.
Trends—January 2010
Regional shortline railroads introduce intermodal shippers to marine rail solutions; Highway report ranks state highway systems; UPS exec offers insight on supply chain trends for 2010; FedEx Freight partners with Vision Industries to test a hybrid heavy-duty tractor; Clorox address hazardous materials concerns; Import cargo volumes rise at retail container ports
Supply Chain Management, Lean, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Automotive Logistics, Manufacturing
Automotive Logistics: The Upside of Resiliency
Collaborative risk management helps automakers and their supply chain partners protect against disruptions.
Ports, Intermodal, Transportation, Trucking
How the Changing Chassis Market Affects Your Supply Chain
Rapid changes in the chassis market mean shippers must ensure they are creating value from the chassis they use.
Supply Chain Management, Lean, Partnership, Inventory Management
Collaborative Programs: Not a Chore But an Opportunity
Programs such as vendor managed inventory (VMI) and efficient consumer response (ECR) fuel supply chain growth.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Asia, Global Logistics, Cross-border Trade, China, Labor Management, Canada, Manufacturing, Reverse Logistics, Latin America, Retail, Economic Development
Global—February 2014
China and Taiwan depend on one another; Emirates targets multimodal transportation infrastructure investment; Chile port strike ends, concerns remain; Free online returns stoke Canadian consumption but place onus on U.S. retailers; Europe looks to United States for re-shoring inspiration; Mondelez debuts new GS1 standard
3PL, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Ports, Intermodal, Global Logistics, Import, Export, Transportation, Ocean, Warehousing
FTZ Basics & Benefits
Foreign Trade Zones can help global shippers cut operational costs and speed customs clearance for imports and exports.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Security, Partnership, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Transportation, Finance
Risk Mitigation: Supply Chain Safety Net
Shippers protect against supply chain disruptions with physical, analytical, and financial risk mitigation strategies.
Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Materials Handling, E-commerce, Customer Service, Inventory Management, Warehousing, Retail
Setting the E-Commerce Gold Standard
Chris Halkyard, chief supply chain officer for e-commerce site Gilt, discusses managing flash sale logistics.
Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Green Logistics
Weathering Climate Change and Supply Chain Risk
Supply chains must develop strategies for reducing risk related to climate change, such as drought and extreme weather.
How to Deploy a Successful Improvement Program
Successful continuous improvement initiatives require focusing on achievable goals.
Risk Management, Global Logistics, 3PL, Site Selection, Supply Chain Management, Security, Materials Handling, Expedited Shipping, Ocean, Trucking, Warehousing
163 Ways to Supercharge Your Supply Chain
Actionable tips help you revitalize your warehousing, 3PL, trucking, and global logistics operations.
Legislation, Public Policy, and Regulations, Middle East, Asia, Risk Management, Global Logistics, Panama Canal, China, 3PL
Global Logistics—January 2014
Global dry-bulk commodity trade reveals rate growth, steadying inflation in China; Preparations for 2022 World Cup trigger DC explosion in Qatar; Supplier risk analysis will become more complex as companies expand into new global markets; Pakistani protests force U.S. military drawdown to consider $1 billion airfreight alternative; Asia truck bans taking toll on logistics industry; Africa’s piracy problem shifting to continent’s west coast; Trans-Pacific Partnership pact stalls, 2014 ratification expected; China’s Nicaraguan Canal stirs intrigue; Tesco acquires stake in “Asia’s Amazon”
Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Customer Service, 3PL, Retail
Customer Service: Delivering the Royal Treatment
As evolving retail models push shopper expectations, companies explore new models for delivering great customer service.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Customer Service
Plugging Multiple Brands Into Multiple Channels
Geodis Wilson helps integrated design technology company Dana Innovations expand its international supply chain.
Risk Management, Logistics I.T.
Trends—December 2013
Cloud-based predictive analytics increasingly available to more companies of all sizes; RFID market set for robust growth by 2020; supply chain risk mitigation should be priority for all companies; key trends driving change for enterprises and government in 2014
Supply Chain Management, E-commerce, Customer Service, Retail
Visions of Customer Service
Companies such as Amazon show delivery speed and logistics agility provide the customer service levels retailers need to win.
Lean, Logistics I.T., Warehousing
Tapping Technology To Improve Lean Warehouses
Tools such as electronic data interchange (EDI) and advanced picking solutions support lean supply chain operations.
Optimized Operations Are Green Operations
Ocean shipping lines have made significant progress to optimize operations, leading to reduced costs and environmental impact.
Belgium Travelog: Dispatched from Flanders
Inbound Logistics recently joined Flanders Investment & Trade on a tour of Belgium’s ports and distribution facilities.
Putting a Lean Spin on Reverse Logistics
Managing reverse logistics with a Lean outlook can not only improve profitability, but also add value for customers.
Risk Management, Transportation
Expecting the Unexpected: The True Test of Leadership
When supply chain disruptions occur, logistics managers must use leadership skills to maintain operations.
We’re All in This Together: Teamwork in a Lean Workplace
Building strong teams can facilitate Lean initiatives in warehouses and supply chain operations.
Risk Management, Supply Chain Management
Preparation: Your Best Asset in Managing Supply Chain Disruptions
Collaborate with suppliers to manage supply chain risks with the highest potential to occur and risk of business impact.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports
Improving America's Ports: A Vital Step in U.S. Economic Recovery
Investing in port infrastructure allows long-term job creation so the U.S. can lead in international trade and commerce.
Security, Risk Management, Certifications
C-TPAT: Building Safer Supply Chains
C-TPAT certification lets businesses support national security and improve their own supply chain operations.
Reducing Defects and Errors: Don't Make the Same Mistake Twice
Apply Lean concepts to eliminate product defects and operator errors in supply chain and logistics operations.
The Lean Supply Chain: Watch Your Waste Line
Shippers and 3PLs have applied lean principles to remove waste from their operations and improve performance.
Getting Green, Going Lean
Demand-driven logistics practices are a perfect focal point to integrate green strategies with Lean methodologies.
Risk Management, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Logistics I.T., Warehousing
What Happens When Your Warehouse Is Unplugged?
Technology management can affect warehouse operations’ connectivity during and after a power outage. Whether the facility’s warehouse management system (WMS) is installed on-site, delivered via a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) program, or hosted in the cloud can have a huge impact on maintaining productivity, writes John Sterling of Foxfire Software.
Supply Chain Management, Asia, Risk Management, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Manufacturing, Latin America
Shoring up Sourcing Strategies
Shifting manufacturing operations in Asia back to North America provides companies more control of their supply chains, says Steve Sensing of Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
Bringing Risk Management into the Heart of the Supply Chain
Supply chain management experience is vital to corporate risk management planning, write Carlos Alvarenga of Accenture.
Are Your Processes Adding Value or Waste?
Value-added warehouse processes such as kitting and assembling may be introducing overprocessing waste into your supply chain.
Minimizing Supply Chain Risk
The ability to minimize supply chain risk and prevent disruptions depends on strong supplier relationships and well-developed contingency plans, says Chris Cameron of Elemica.
Transportation Management, Ports, Intermodal
Sharing the Load
Transloading shipments allows shippers to reduce touches and costs, and create greater flexibility to respond to changing demand in global shipments.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Overproduction
Producing or purchasing too much inventory leads to waste and carrying costs. Companies can apply the Lean principle of Takt time to ensure the right level of product is on hand to meet customer needs.
The Lean Supply Chain: A Field of Opportunity
The Lean Supply Chain is a system of interconnected and interdependent forces that operate in unison to accomplish overarching supply chain objectives, writes Robert Martichenko of LeanCor Supply Chain Group.
Measuring Customer Service: The Up-and-Coming KPI
Customer service is improving as some shippers and their service providers work to develop key performance indicators (KPIs) that measure customer service metrics.
Playing the Waiting Game
Identify the sources of delay to reduce the time workers spend waiting for instructions and supplies. Lean tools such as Kanban and Total Productive Maintenance can help, writes Paul A. Myerson.
Panama Canal, Transportation Infrastructure, Ports
Ports and Shippers Prepare for the Post-Panamax Age
The Panama Canal expansion, to be completed in 2015, will impact global commerce and affect trade patterns to the U.S. East Coast. Ports such as PortMiami are preparing themselves to accept the new class of mega cargo ships, says Bill Johnson of PortMiami.
Weaving a New, Strong North American Presence
Third-party logistics provider (3PL) Geodis Wilson helps apparel company Desigual establish its U.S. warehousing, distribution, and retail operation, and ensure shipment visibility and tracking.
A Window of Opportunity
Window and door maker Simonton partners with Cardinal Logistics for dedicated delivery to dealers and big box retailers across the United States.
Holiday Rush Planning: How to Mitigate Risk in a Volatile Market
Lorcan Sheehan of ModusLink discusses some of the lessons businesses have learned that help mitigate supply chain risk during the peak season.
How to Manage the Supply Chain Following a Natural Disaster
Planning for exceptions can help shippers prevent supply chain disruptions in the wake of a natural disaster.
How to Move Freight in Volatile Locations
Successfully moving freight into challenging areas requires an abundance of preparation and due diligence, test runs, and contingency plans to make sure moves happen without a hitch.
How to Mitigate Supply Chain Disruptions
When supply chain disruptions arise, shippers need to react quickly—without incurring undue costs—to keep production in line with demand.
Mitigating Facilitation Risk
Logistics professionals and companies should adopt and continuously update a risk-based export compliance program to minimize facilitation risk, writes Michael E. Burke of Arnall Golden Gregor.
Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, Logistics I.T.
Visibility is the Key to Mitigating Supply Chain Risk
Supply chain visibility helps flag upcoming supply or demand problems, allowing a company either to take action to prevent disasters or to respond by activating backup plans, writes George W. Prest of Material Handling Industry of America.
Eliminating Wasted Motion
Lean concepts such as 5S, Visual Workplace, and Kanban help reduce motion waste to create safer, more efficient workplaces.
Risk Management, Logistics I.T.
Can Your Global Supply Chain Withstand a Crisis?
Risk management strategies must address the everyday sources of supply chain disruption, and managers must incorporate the identification of potential supply chain risk into their daily practices, writes Mark Humphlett, Infor.
Minimizing Wasted Movement
Eliminating unnecessary movements in warehousing operations goes a long way toward improving your supply chain’s Lean profile.
Ports Can Help Ensure Ship-Shape Supply Chains
Ports must take a proactive role in managing the supply chain so it runs as efficiently as possible, writes Kevin Doherty of Montreal Gateway Terminals Partnership.
Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Panama Canal, Economic Development
Southeast Ports: What’s on the Horizon?
Looking out to 2015, anticipation is swirling about the Panama Canal's expansion and impact on U.S. trade. Among southeastern ports and shippers, that wave of anticipation has already made landfall.
Inventory…What a Waste
Carrying excess inventory ties up valuable capital and warehouse space. Using lean tools to analyze and optimize inventory levels helps companies operate more efficiently.
Risk Management, Cross-border Trade, Mexico, Latin America
Beating the Odds in Latin America
Multinational corporations are gambling on the Latin American market's growth potential. But meeting the region's supply chain challenges requires an understanding of local markets, strategic planning, and strong partnerships.
Materials Handling, Lean, Warehousing
Making a Business Case for Lean MHE
Applying lean principles to materials handling equipment purchases and configurations helps companies cut costs, writes Robert Arndt, Ryder Supply Chain Solutions.
The Journey to Continuous Supply Chain Improvement
Applying lean manufacturing principles to supply chain and logistics operations can help businesses reduce costs and gain efficiencies, writes Paul A. Myerson of LPA, LLC.
Lean, Labor Management, Logistics I.T.
Leveraging Lean and Labor Management
Using lean components as a foundation for labor management is a powerful way to increase productivity and reduce costs in a warehouse or distribution center, according to Ryder Supply Chain Solutions’ Jeff Boudreau.
Managing Supply Chain Disruptions
Supply chain disruptions become more manageable when shippers have supply chain technology that provides shipment visibility, writes Henry Hicks, Progress Software.
Customer Service, Transportation Management, Partnership
Jumping Through Hoops: The Importance of Vendor Compliance
Small companies face challenges in meeting the rules set out in vendor requirements manuals. Best practices help them comply with retailers’ supplier requirements successfully.
Tough Economic Times Require LEAN Logistics Solutions
Forward-thinking organizations are pursuing lean assessments to evaluate their supply chain, combined with innovative lean solutions to help them design the future state of their value stream, writes Eric Lail of Transportation Insight.
Protecting Your Company Against Load Board Scams
Shippers can avoid load board scams by taking the time to research the companies with which they do business, writes Jeff Vielhaber, TTS.
Are You Effectively Managing Supply Chain Risk?
Managing risk in the supply chain requires that shippers address issues such as product safety, environmental concerns, labor management, and social responsibility.
Risk Management, Food Logistics, Logistics I.T.
5 Steps to Improving Food Product Traceability
Retailers can implement technology and processes to increase traceability and gain greater visibility into their supply chain, which helps track and retrieve products in the event of a product recall, writes Brendan Lowe, Aldata Solution.
Integration: Bucking Convention
Buck Knives’ lean integration has allowed the company to sharpen efficiencies in its manufacturing operation, increase output, and pull back production from China.
Scrutinizing Supply Chain Security
The logistics sector is using new approaches, mandates, and technologies to support global supply chain security.
Sold! Ports Help Close the Deal on Economic Development
Demand for industrial real estate near U.S. seaports is outpacing demand for industrial sites in general. Whether it actively buys and develops land or simply improves its own facilities to draw more interest, port authorities are crucial partners in regional economic development initiatives.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery
Delivering the Final Smile
The use of new technology and tools—such as email, cellphones, and social media—allows shippers to stay involved, from order to final-mile delivery, no matter what the shipment, to create a superior customer service experience.
E-commerce, Customer Service, Warehousing, Retail
Superstar Service: Supply Chain Strategies Win Satisfied Customers
Retailers such as Brookstone, BuySeasons, Pet Supplies Plus, and Wayfair streamline their supply chains to deliver better customer service.
Mitigating Supply Chain Risk
Well-defined business practices, thorough contracts, physical security, and active planning, help mitigate supply chain risk.
Dedicated Refrigerated Fleet Helps Food Distributor Keep Its Cool
Distributor United Natural Foods Inc. worked with third-party logistics (3PL) provider Cardinal Logistics to consolidate from a multiple carrier network for its inbound logistics transportation to a dedicated contract carriage arrangement.
Superior Service, Seven Days a Week
When Wells-Gardner Electronics Corporation outsourced its import and export shipping to Geodis Wilson, it reaped numerous supply chain benefits, such as reduced shipping times and improved shipment visibility, as well as avoiding duty and taxes.
Reliable In-Store Deliveries Fit to a Tea
Manufacturer Milo’s Tea Company outsourced its fleet to Ryder Supply Chain Solutions under a dedicated contract carriage arrangement. Benefits included reduced transportation costs, increased efficiency in managing seasonal surges, and improved fleet and driver reliability, which helped Milo’s better serve its customers.
Freight Consolidation Drives Auto Supply Chain Efficiency
Automotive component supplier IAC needed better control, visibility, and reporting to help weld its supply chain into a cohesive unit. ProTrans delivered innovation and customized solutions designed to control costs along IAC’s network.
Trends—October 2011
U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rules against Port of LA; Florida Inland Port signs MOU with Jacksonville Port Authority; Parcel shippers primed for change; Proposed FTZ rules changes threaten U.S. manufacturing.
Intermodal Inroads
Carriers, port authorities, and other service providers are working to keep intermodal going strong. Here’s a look at some of the newest developments in intermodal transportation around North America.
Protecting Your Supply Chain Against Disruption
Dr. Jeff Karrenbauer of supply chain solutions provider INSIGHT offers tips for protecting against supply chain disruption.
Risk Management, Safety, Trucking
Truckers Play Role in Homeland Security
Curt Shewchuck, chief security officer, Con-way Freight discusses how the carrier's security protocols helped avert a terrorist threat.
Does Your 3PL Provide ‘Golden Rule’ Customer Service?
John Rodeheffer of Zipline Logistics outlines how to find a 3PL that delivers "Golden Rule" customer service: who treat others as they want to be treated, with honest and transparent communication.
Ports Plug In: Electronic Tracking Tools Create Smooth Sailing for Ocean Cargo
Most ports today compete globally with one another and reflect tremendous productivity gains in ocean transport achieved in recent decades. Simon Kaye of Jaguar Freight offers tips on choosing a port with electronic and data processing sophistication.
Avoid Big Losses When Shipping Big Machinery
Barry Tarnef, senior loss control specialist for Chubb Marine Underwriters, outlines strategies for reducing risk when shipping large machinery.
Customer Service, Last Mile Delivery
The Last Mile’s Lasting Impact
From traditional heavy goods shipments to the new influx of e-commerce-fueled home deliveries, the last mile plays a crucial role in the supply chain.
The Perfect Storm: Weathering a Chassis Crisis
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Roadability Rule has shifted responsibility for obtaining and maintaining chassis to shippers and drayage companies.
Do You Know Who You’re Doing Business With?
As you enter into new global business relationships, you can protect yourself from unnecessary penalties by knowing your customer.
3PL, Supply Chain Management, Customer Service
Managing a Customer-Driven Supply Chain
Logistics providers who work to understand shippers' needs help create customer service success, as illustrated by case studies involving Pep Boys, McCain Foods, and USG Corporation.
Risk Management, Global Logistics
Navigating Global Supply Chain Risks
Danny Halim of JDA Software offers strategies for minimizing risk in the global supply chain.
Customer Service: Who Needs it?
To survive and grow in today's demanding, competitive economy, companies must excel at both supply chain management and customer service.
Distribution, Customer Service
Nexus Distribution: A Fresh Sheet of Customer Service
When Boise Paper wanted to consolidate five Northeast region facilities into just one, it turned to Nexus Distribution for customer service excellence built on a sound implementation process.
Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM): Plus-Sized Customer Service
Women’s apparel retailer Charming Shoppes praises the red-carpet treatment it gets from logistics partner Hyundai Merchant Marine.
Lean: The Next Best Thing to ‘Clip-and-Save’
Charlie Jacobs of APL Logistics explains the cost savings and efficiency benefits of implementing lean practices, as demonstrated by three warehousing case studies.
Supply Chain Management, Ports, Logistics I.T., Ocean, Trucking
Trends—November 2010
David Bennett of Schneider Logistics addresses how shippers, ocean carriers, and trucking companies are struggling with responsibility for providing chassis for cargo container units at ports; Boeing appoints new VP to handle 787 Dreamliner delays; companies restructure outsourced technology contracts.
Ports, Global Economy, Middle East, Asia, Ocean, Green Logistics
Global Logistics—November 2010
Heineken implements inland barge distribution in Europe; CMA CGM, MSC, and Maersk Line partner to fight piracy; PepsiCo UK and Ireland help farm suppliers cut carbon emissions and water usage; New Dubai Logistics Corridor facilitates UAE trade; Japanese economy shows signs of rebound; Taiwan launches project to improve logistics performance.
Site Selection, Distribution, Supply Chain Management, Transportation Infrastructure, Ports, Intermodal, Rail, 3PL, Air Cargo, Utilities, Ocean, Trucking, Warehousing, Economic Development
Memphis: America’s Aerotropolis
Geography, transportation infrastructure, and a strong distribution sector make Memphis a natural logistics hub.
Supply Chain Management, Partnership, Risk Management
Supplier Disruptions: Preparing for the Unpredictable
Chandler Hall of BravoSolution explains how to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions by fostering collaborative relationships with your suppliers.
Risk Management, Safety, Security, Trucking
Balancing Risk Management With Your Operations Strategy
Increased regulation in the form of CSA 2010 affects not only truckers, but also freight brokers providing insurance, according to Mike Williams, chief operating officer, Sunteck Transport Group.
Ports, Global Economy, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Rail, Global Logistics, Panama Canal, Ocean, Trucking, Green Logistics, Latin America
Trends—September 2010
News briefs: U.S. Ports Dig Panama Gold, Reducing the Carton Footprint, SaaS to the Rescue, BNSF Brings Shortlines On Line, Truckers Tackle Credit Crunch
Supply Chain Management, Materials Handling, Ports, Forklifts, Ocean, Education & Careers
Trends—August 2010
Gulf ports maintain container volumes despite Deepwater Horizon oil spill; Supply chain leaders climb the corporate ladder; Toyota Material Handling engineers work with MIT scientists and the U.S. Army to develop a remote-operated fork lift
Supply Chain Management, Lean, 3PL
Lean Six Sigma: Leaning by Degrees
Lean Six Sigma enablers and practitioners are using continuous improvement methodologies to squeeze cost and inefficiency out of the supply chain.
Customer Service, 3PL, Supply Chain Management, Partnership
What We’ve Got Here is Failure to Communicate
A failure to communicate is the primary reason that 3PL relationships fall apart, according to Inbound Logistics' annual third-party logistics survey.
Deere Customer
A lean manufacturing value chain sometimes carries the risk of falling behind demand, as John Deere discovered, but the alternative can be worse, writes Inbound Logistics Publisher Keith Biondo.
Crack the WIP for a Leaner Supply Chain
Zebra Technologies' David Phillips explains how eliminating excess work-in-process waste improves your supply chain.
Global Logistics, Global Economy, Risk Management
Trends—May 2010
Faced with transportation interruptions caused by the April 2010 eruption of an Icelandic volcano, European express carriers TNT and DHL activated contingency plans; LCD television manufacturers control spending by bringing production in-house; Inventory-in-sales ratios rise across the supply chain; Wholesaler Arrow Electronics acquires reverse logistics companies; Google helps consumers match demand to in-store supply
Reducing Risk with Trade Disruption Insurance
Robert L. Sobel of Cook, Hall, and Hyde outlines how shippers can benefit from trade disruption insurance.
On the Road | Elizabeth, New Jersey: On the Waterfront
Inbound Logistics Senior Writer Joseph O'Reilly visits New Jersey's Port Elizabeth, one of the East Coast's busiest intermodal ports.
New Year, New Insurance Review
C. Daniel Negron of TT Club offers guidance for making sure your supply chain is properly insured.
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